UPDATED: Launched at the end of 2011 the Fuji X10 combines retro rangefinder looks with advanced digital camera technology to deliver a fantastic advanced compact. However, with the enthusiast compact segment welcoming so many new models over the past 12 months, is the X10 still able to compete? Find out in the What Digital Camera Fuji X10 review...
Fujifilm X10 Review
Design
Fujifilm X10 review – Design
Looks-wise the X10 follows a rangefinder-style, retro design that’s similar to the X100, and as such, it’s a great looking piece of kit. Proportionally, it’s quite a bit smaller than the X100, with a footprint similar to that of a Canon G12.
Both the bottom and top plates of the X10 are constructed from magnesium, while the rest of the body is finished off in a durable synthetic leather. With the mode dial, zoom ring and exposure compensation dial all milled from solid metal, the X10 feels a like a real premium product in the hand.
There’s a subtle handgrip, while on the rear you’ll find a smooth rubberised thumb rest. The X100 had a traditional aperture ring round the lens, but this is not the case with the X10. Instead, there’s a manual zoom ring that also functions as the on/off switch – twist it round from the Off position to 28mm to spark the camera into life.
The rest of the X10’s front is pretty sparse: there’s an AF mode switch, viewfinder window, and AF-assist illuminator. Up on the top of the camera are mode and exposure compensations dials, the shutter release (with a screw thread for a traditional cable release), a programmable function button, built-in flash and hotshoe. The rear of the camera is cleanly laid-out – there’s a main-command dial, sub-command scroll wheel and a small selection of other button-based controls that allow quick access to a range of settings.